Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dalits in India: A Contemporary Exploration

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar (April 14, 1891—Dec. 6,1956) was a leader, scholar and activist of the depressed classes known as untouchables, or Dalits (meaning the ‘oppressed’ or ‘crushed’). He appeared on the Indian socio-political scene in the early 1920s and remained in the forefront of all social, economic, political and religious efforts for uplift of the lowest stratum of the Indian society. He organized, united and inspired the Dalits in India to effectively political means towards their goal and social equality. Amartya Sen himself voices forth that ‘Ambedkar is a true celebrated champion of the underprivileged. He deserves more than what he has achieved today. However, he was highly controversial figure in his home country, though it was not the reality. His contribution in the field of economics is marvellous and will be remembered forever...!’ His economic philosophy aims at giving life to those who are disowned, elevated those who are suppressed, kicked, pooh-pooed and neglected, enabling those who are downtrodden, and generating liberty, equality and greater to all irrespective of caste. In the above background, the present paper focuses a broad overview of the status of Dalits in India-- poorest and weakest sections of our society and Ambedkar’s endeavour to uplift their lot.